coerce

[ koh-urs ]

verb (used with object)

, co·erced, co·erc·ing.

1. to compel by force, intimidation, or authority, especially without regard for individual desire or volition:

   They coerced him into signing the document.

2. to bring about through the use of force or other forms of compulsion; exact:

   to coerce obedience.

3. to dominate or control, especially by exploiting fear, anxiety, etc.:

   The state is based on successfully coercing the individual.

coerce

/ kəʊˈɜːs /

verb

1. tr to compel or restrain by force or authority without regard to individual wishes or desires

Derived Forms

• coˈercer, noun
• coˈercible, adjective

Other Words From

• co·erc·er noun
• co·er·ci·ble adjective
• non·co·er·ci·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of coerce¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Latin coercēre “to hold in, restrain,” equivalent to co- co- + -ercēre, combining form of arcēre “to keep in, keep away,” akin to arca ark

Word History and Origins

Origin of coerce¹

C17: from Latin coercēre to confine, restrain, from co- together + arcēre to enclose

Example Sentences

Some believe the existence of assisted dying legislation could create an implicit pressure on terminally-ill people - even if no-one is actively trying to coerce them.

From BBC

Elise disagrees that the bill would coerce people into prematurely ending their lives, as this option would only be available to those with six months to live.

From BBC

It would make it illegal for someone to pressure, coerce or use dishonesty to get someone to make a declaration that they wish to end their life or to induce someone to self-administer an approved substance.

From BBC

Under the proposed legislation, it would also be illegal to pressure or coerce someone into making a declaration that they wish to end their life.

From BBC

The BBC spoke to a third woman, who says in the late 90s she was locked in a room by the boss as he attempted to coerce her into sexual activity.

From BBC

Related Words

• browbeat
• bully
• intimidate
• repress
• strong-arm
• suppress
• terrorize